2 varieties: Nephrite and Jadeite Until the late 16th century all European jade was nephrite. Because they thought it had healing powers, the Spanish took jadeite back to Europe from the Aztecs in Mexico. In 1863 the difference between jadeite and nephrite was discovered.

Color: The best is called imperial jade and is green from chromium. Pure is white. Other impurities cause lilac, pink, brown, red, blue, black, orange, yellow Transparent to translucent

Mined in Myanmar, Guatemala, Japan, California

Ancient Lore: Jadeite had great value for the Indians of Mexico, Central, and South America. It was a symbol of water and plant life growth. Used for masks, statues of gods, and ritual items. For burial, a piece placed in the mouth of an important person was supposed to be his heart in after life.

It was ground into powder and mixed with herbs for healing. Could cure fevers and fractured skulls. Could resurrect a dying person.

NEPHRITE Named in 1780, from Latin meaning kidney, because in Europe it was used to treat kidney disease.

Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si3O22(OH)2 hardness 6 1/2 specific gravity 2.96

Color: dark green from iron to cream color from magnesium. Can be a single color, blotchy or banded, other colors.

Ancient lore: There were many Chinese beliefs. In the structure of Chinese feudal society, stones were assigned to the different classes of nobility. Jade was a symbol of sovereignty and power. It was important in rituals and used in burial. It guaranteed immortality and had life giving qualities. Could prevent suffering from heat, cold, thirst, or hunger.

Healing: If a piece of jade was handled, its virtue was absorbed into the body. It could strengthen the heart, lungs, vocal organs, and muscles. Purified blood and hardened the bones. Calmed the mind.

JASPER Name from the Greek word iaspis, meaning spotted stone

SiO2 hardness 7 specific gravity 2.61

Colors: reds from hematite, white or gray from clay, brown or yellow from goethite, greens, and mixtures Opaque

Mined in USA, Russia, France, Germany

Many names have been given to describe the colors or patterns in the stones. Suppliers sometimes give their own names. The same stone may be found with different names, or the same name for different stones. The red varieties are usually a brick red. The yellows are golden yellow. Greens are often shades of olive green. Whites are off white to yellowish white. A stone may include several colors. Other varieties may have various single color stones.

Ancient lore: Jasper has been used for jewelry since Paleolithic times. Colors were important for the healing power of stones. Jasper has so many colors that it was very valuable. In the 4th century it could bring rain and protected the wearer from snake bites. It could absorb poison. The Babylonians believed it cured women’s diseases and made it a symbol of child birth. In the 11th century when all stones were believed to be alive, jasper was a female stone.

Ancient Lore: Carved ornaments were found in prehistoric caves. The Romans carved it into beads. Irish women burned it to protect their husbands when they were away. In Medieval times, powdered jet in wine or water, had medicinal properties.

Many of our unique necklaces are designed as adjustable mix and
match jewelry sets. These adjustable beads can be
changed to suit the occasion and your attire. To learn more about them, visit the
Adjustable Necklace Sets page.

Shipping Outside United States?We offer standard international shipping or contact us for a custom shipping quote.

Customer Comments

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